Modric: Milan’s ‘reputation and history’ close to Real Madrid’s
When Luka Modric speaks about footballing institutions, the world leans in to listen, and his recent declaration that AC Milan's 'reputation and history' stand shoulder-to-shoulder with his former colossus, Real Madrid, is more than just a polite compliment from a new signing—it's a seismic statement from a living legend whose career is a masterclass in midfield excellence. Having started all 12 Serie A matches for the Rossoneri this season, the 40-year-old Croatian is not merely collecting a final paycheck in a sun-drenched league; he is actively imprinting his genius on a title race, contributing significantly to statement victories against arch-rivals Inter, the southern giants Napoli, and a resurgent Roma, performances that have solidified Milan's grip on second place, just two tantalizing points behind the league leaders.In an exclusive interview with Arena Sport that felt less like a media obligation and more like a heartfelt soliloquy, Modric peeled back the layers on his monumental transition, describing a welcome in Milan that was 'truly top-level,' from the city's enchanting ambiance to the immediate embrace from teammates, coach, and a fanbase whose passion echoes the fervor of the Bernabéu. This is not a player in decline seeking a gentle sunset; this is a Ballon d'Or winner, a conqueror of four La Liga titles and a scarcely believable six Champions League trophies, consciously choosing a final chapter that matches the grandeur of his legacy.His reflection on leaving Madrid after 13 years, a period he calls 'one of the most beautiful' of his life, was poignant with the weight of history, acknowledging the unreal feeling of his achievements after arriving as a refined 27-year-old, his four years at Tottenham Hotspur having forged the steel necessary for such galactic expectations. The analytical beauty of Modric's choice lies in its perfect symmetry; he didn't merely join another big club, he selected the one club from his childhood that mirrored his own footballing soul, having grown up enthralled by Italian football's tactical ballet with Milan as his object of adoration.When the San Siro option materialized, it was, as he stated, 'the right one,' a homecoming to a dream, a strategic move to a club whose seven European Cups sit only behind Madrid's own peerless collection, making this a transition between peers in continental royalty rather than a step down. The broader context here is a Serie A experiencing a renaissance, attracting global icons like Modric not for a farewell tour but for a genuine competitive crusade, his presence elevating the league's profile and providing a masterclass for a generation of Italian midfielders. With his contract featuring an option until 2027, this is a story still being written, a narrative where Modric's veteran intelligence and flawless technique could be the final, decisive piece in Milan's puzzle to reclaim the Scudetto and make a deep run in Europe, proving that even at 40, his passing range and footballing IQ can dissect defences as effectively as ever, a timeless maestro conducting one last, glorious symphony in the famous red and black.
#Luka Modric
#AC Milan
#Real Madrid
#Serie A
#player transfer
#featured
